The Old Man...

 

The Old Man... A reflection on abandonment, compassion, and the power of presence

 Recently we read in the newspapers that a man from Malad, Mumbai, who was carrying a pot of rum, was abandoned by his grandmother near a dustbin in Goregaon, as his grandmother was suffering from cancer and was unable to take care of him. The son was caught and action was taken with the intervention of the police.

 Hearing this story brings tears to my eyes and makes me hate that son.

 This incident shook our hearts. It is not just a story of neglect - it is a reflection of a broken system, broken families and the painful loneliness that many of our elderly suffer in their final years. The image of that helpless old man thrown away like garbage left an impression of sadness and anger in our minds. How can one abandon those who raised us, loved us and sacrificed their own comfort for our future? It is easy to feel hatred towards the son in that story. But beyond that initial feeling, perhaps we should also ask ourselves what kind of society we are creating, where stories like this are constantly unfolding. Are we so busy with our lives that we have forgotten the basic values ​​of gratitude, care and responsibility?

 Against this grim backdrop, something very meaningful happened.

 On Sunday, June 29, the ECHO Foundation team visited an old age home on Vajreshwari Road, about 40 kilometres from Mumbai. It was our first visit in a long time, and it could not have come at a more relevant time. The old age home is a humble but warm place, home to about 35 elderly persons – each with a world of stories within them.

 Some of the elderly had come there voluntarily. Perhaps they wanted peace in their old age, or perhaps they wanted to avoid being a burden on their family. But one truth stood out clearly: no parent ever wishes bad for their children. No matter how difficult life is, parents’ hearts beat with love, care and silent blessings for their children.

 When we arrived, their faces lit up – not just because of the food, snacks, and cakes we brought – but because someone had come to listen to them. Someone had come to see them, sit with them, laugh with them. In a world where they are often invisible, we made them feel seen, heard, and respected.

 Amit Poipkar’s madam had arranged for grains (rice, lentils, oil, flour), and our dedicated volunteers – Amit, Manuel, Sandeep, Ashok and Mohan – joined hands to spread joy. Together, we spoke for hours with residents, listening to their stories of youth, struggle, love and loss. Their smiles were priceless; their eyes filled with joy that no material thing can bring.

 These are the forgotten heroes – people who raised families, built homes, held jobs and quietly contributed to society. Now they sit quietly in corners, cherishing memories and hoping someone will remember them.

 This experience left a deep mark on our hearts. It reminded us that service is not just charity – it is humanity. It means giving people what they deserve: respect, love and time.

 Caring for those who once cared for us.

 Raising our voices when we see injustice against the elderly.

 Making time to visit an old age home or call our elders, even if it is just once a month.

 Raising awareness and creating a culture where the elderly are respected and protected, not abandoned.

 We should not wait for another news to shake our conscience. Let us act now, with compassion, courage, and love.

 Because one day we too will grow old. And when that day comes, we would like someone to remember us – not with pity, but with respect and love.